The same principles apply to the components of crates as to the components of boxes. Unlike boxes, the outer solid-lumber cladding is not closed.

The ratio of the closed area to the open area lies between 1:1 and 2:1, meaning that the gaps between the individual boards can be between half the width of a board and the full width of a board. The width of a board should not be less than 10 cm.

The cladding of the floor is generally the same as that of the walls and the lid, but can also be closed if necessary.

Because the walls are only partially clad, any markings must be applied to special services, for instance to weather-resistant plywood or OSB sheets which are then attached to the wall surfaces.

Figure 91: Crate construction